Hulk Hogan’s Hollywood Legacy: From Rocky III to Reality TV Icon

The world of entertainment and wrestling mourns the loss of an icon, Hulk Hogan, who passed away at 71 on Thursday after a cardiac arrest at his Clearwater, Florida, home. A larger-than-life figure, Hogan transcended the wrestling ring to become a household name in Hollywood, blending action-packed roles with heartfelt family moments on screen.

Hogan first stepped into the cinematic spotlight in 1982 with a memorable role as Thunderlips in Rocky III, facing off against Sylvester Stallone in an unforgettable exhibition match. This debut paved the way for a string of roles that showcased his charisma, from the intense drama of No Holds Barred in 1989, where he starred as Rip Thomas, to the lighter, comedic side in Mr. Nanny (1993), playing a retired wrestler turned bodyguard and nanny.

Beyond leading roles, Hogan often appeared as himself, adding a touch of authenticity to films like Gremlins 2: The New Batch and Muppets from Space, where his larger-than-life persona shone through. His last major film role came in 2009 with Little Hercules, portraying Zeus in a modern twist on the classic tale.

Hogan’s reach extended to reality TV with Hogan Knows Best, airing from 2005 to 2007, offering fans a glimpse into his family life with then-wife Linda and their children, Brooke and Nick. The show revealed a softer side to the wrestling titan, as Hogan himself noted wanting fans to see beyond the screaming, body-slamming image to the dad who cries at The Lion King.

Tributes have poured in from Hollywood, with Stallone reflecting on their time together on Rocky III, calling Hogan a force with an undeniable glow. Brooke Shields, Mario Lopez, and Lee Greenwood also shared heartfelt memories, underscoring the impact Hogan had on fans and peers alike. His legacy as a wrestler, actor, and cultural icon remains unmatched, a true testament to a man who lived as big as his persona.